Lysvang Vandtårn (Solvang Water Tower), Sønderborg
A modest 1930s water tower in a quiet Sønderborg neighborhood, blending industrial heritage, wartime stories and occasional panoramic views over town and fjord.
Lysvang Vandtårn, also known as Solvang Water Tower, rises above the residential quarter of Sønderborg as a modest but characterful industrial landmark. Built in its current form in 1936 and linked to the town’s waterworks history from the late 19th century, the 20 m tower and adjoining circular reservoir once secured clean drinking water and stable pressure for the growing town. Today it stands mostly closed, opening only on special days, when visitors can climb for wide views across red-tiled roofs, the fjord and the gently rolling South Jutland landscape.
A brief summary to Lysvang Vandtårn
- Lysvang 31, Sønderborg, 6400, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check local utility announcements or municipal event calendars in advance; public access to the tower interior and viewpoint is usually limited to special open days.
- If you are allowed to climb the tower, wear comfortable shoes for narrow stairs and bring a light jacket, as the interior can feel cool and slightly damp.
- Combine a stop at the tower with a stroll through the surrounding Solvang and Lysvang streets to photograph the tower from different angles among rooftops and gardens.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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City bus from Sønderborg centrum
From central Sønderborg, use a local city bus line serving the Solvang or Lysvang residential area; typical journey time is 10–20 minutes depending on route and traffic. A single adult ticket usually costs around 20–30 DKK and can often be bought from ticket machines or via regional transport apps. Buses run more frequently on weekdays than in the evening or on Sundays, so check the timetable in advance. The walk from the nearest stop to the tower involves gentle residential streets and is generally suitable for most mobility levels.
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Bicycle from central Sønderborg
Cycling from Sønderborg’s centre to Lysvang Vandtårn normally takes 10–20 minutes, using local streets and designated cycle paths where available. The route involves a gradual uphill section as you approach the tower’s elevated position but remains manageable for casual cyclists. Public bike racks are limited in the immediate vicinity, so be prepared to lock your bike to suitable street furniture without blocking pavements. This option is free apart from any bicycle rental cost you may have in town.
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Taxi within Sønderborg
A taxi ride from the central harbour or railway station area to Lysvang Vandtårn typically takes about 10 minutes in normal traffic. Fares within Sønderborg for such a short urban trip usually fall in the range of 80–140 DKK, depending on time of day and waiting time. Taxis can be pre‑booked by phone or found at central ranks, but availability may be reduced late at night or on holidays. Drop‑off is normally possible on the residential street close to the tower’s entrance.
Lysvang Vandtårn location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Lysvang Vandtårn
An unassuming tower in a quiet Sønderborg neighborhood
Lysvang Vandtårn stands tucked into a calm residential area north of Sønderborg’s center, its pale shaft and rounded reservoir rising above low houses and gardens. From street level, you first notice the stout cylindrical base, topped by a ring-shaped tank building that reads more like solid architecture than pure infrastructure. Behind it, the slimmer tower section climbs to around 20 m, crowned by a small top structure that once housed the water tank and technical equipment. Although it is no longer critical to the daily water supply, the complex still belongs to the local utility and sits within a fenced compound, giving it a slightly off-limits, behind-the-scenes feel. Trees, grass and service buildings soften the industrial lines, so the site feels more like a pocket of working heritage than a polished attraction.From 1890s waterworks to 1930s modernisation
Sønderborg’s first waterworks at Lysvang dates back to the 1890s, when the town began laying pipes and building storage capacity to guarantee clean water and reliable pressure. Early structures on this hill laid the groundwork for what you see today. In 1936 the system was significantly modernised: the current Solvang water tower was constructed, combining a vertical tower with a larger circular ground-level reservoir capable of holding tens of thousands of litres of water. The tower’s 20 m height and 180 m³ tank volume were calculated to stabilise pressure across the growing town while giving engineers easier control over daily fluctuations. By lifting water above the rooftops, gravity rather than pumps did much of the work. This quiet piece of civic engineering helped underpin everyday life, from household taps to fire hydrants, long before anyone thought of water towers as photo subjects.Camouflage, conflict and a strategic silhouette
During the Second World War, Solvang Vandtårn unexpectedly became part of the region’s wartime story. Because its white silhouette stood out on the skyline, German authorities had it camouflaged to make it less visible from the air. Paint and netting helped break up its outlines, turning a purely functional structure into a minor defensive element in a heavily contested border region. Seen from today’s peaceful streets, it is easy to miss that history. Yet the very fact that such an everyday building had to be hidden underscores how exposed this hilltop position once was. For visitors interested in military history or in the shifting borders of Southern Jutland, the tower offers a tangible reminder of how infrastructure and conflict can intersect.A rare chance to climb for Sønderborg views
For most of the year, Lysvang Vandtårn remains closed, quietly doing background work for the water network. On selected open days, however, the local utility invites the public inside. Those events usually allow you to step into the circular reservoir building, see basic installations, and climb the internal stairs of the tower. From the upper levels, the reward is a surprisingly broad panorama. You can look out across the Solvang and Lysvang districts, trace the line of the fjord, and, on clear days, follow the contours of the South Jutland countryside towards fields, forests and wind turbines. The view is not as high as some classic observation towers, but the mix of rooftops, water and open land gives a satisfying sense of place.Architecture with understated 1930s character
Architecturally, Solvang Vandtårn reflects the stripped-down practicality of the 1930s. There is little ornament: smooth walls, simple window openings and a strong, circular geometry dominate. The lower round reservoir hall sits like a drum at the edge of the site, while the vertical tower behind it adds a clear, almost sculptural accent. Together they form a small industrial ensemble that can be appreciated from multiple angles as you walk around the surrounding streets. Subtle details reward a closer look, from joints and access hatches to railings and ladders silhouetted against the sky. The contrast between the utilitarian concrete forms and the soft greenery of gardens and trees around them makes the tower an appealing subject for photographers chasing unusual urban landscapes.A niche stop for the curious urban explorer
Lysvang Vandtårn is not a major sightseeing magnet; it is best suited to travellers who enjoy discovering the working layers of a town. It combines local history, modest engineering heritage and occasional access to a city view, all within a lived-in residential setting rather than a formal museum. Pairing a visit here with a walk through Sønderborg’s other water-related sites, such as the harbourfront and the older waterworks buildings elsewhere in town, helps round out the story of how this small coastal city has managed its most essential resource. For those with time and curiosity, the tower adds a distinct, quietly atmospheric chapter to Sønderborg’s urban narrative.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
1.1 km
A vibrant family-friendly playground in central Roskilde, Byparkens Legeplads offers open-air fun, creativity, and relaxation in the heart of the city’s beloved Byparken.
Memory stone
1.1 km
A modest monument on Sønderborg’s town-hall square, the Memory Stone offers a quiet pause for reflection amid the everyday bustle of this historic border town.
Iskonditoriet
1.1 km
Byparkens Legeplads in Roskilde fuses creative play equipment and green park scenery for a free, family-friendly experience in the heart of the historic Danish city.
Sønderborg Kommunale Kommandocentral
1.1 km
Hidden beneath Kongevej lies Sønderborg’s former Cold War nerve center, an underground command bunker built to keep the city running in times of crisis.
Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
1.1 km
A modest stone on Sønderborg’s former shooting range honouring two fallen wartime servicemen, inviting a brief but powerful pause for remembrance and reflection.
Windmill
1.3 km
Denmark's iconic windmill and national symbol of resilience, rebuilt after war and transformed into a living museum of history.
Mindesten for Røde Kors
2.6 km
A quiet memorial to the world's first Red Cross observers amid Denmark's most historic battlefield.
Gedenkstein für hingerichtete Widerstandskämpfer
2.6 km
Discreet harborfront memorial in Sønderborg honoring eleven young German sailors executed for mutiny in 1945, inviting quiet reflection on conscience and war.
King's Redoubt
2.7 km
A preserved 1864 military fortress symbolizing Danish resilience and regional heritage.
Tysk skanse X
2.7 km
Stille jordvolde på Dybbøl Banke, hvor en tysk skanse fortæller om tiden efter 1864 og fæstningsringen, der engang omklamrede Sønderborg.
Genforeningsmærke på Dybbøl Skanse II
3.1 km
Memorial marker honoring Danish reunification and the 1864 battle's fallen defenders on a historic fortification site.
Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
6.6 km
A quiet stone marking Denmark's liberation and Vester Sottrup's wartime legacy.
Foundation country Schäferhaus
31.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Foundation country Schaeferhaus, a nature preserve in Flensburg, perfect for relaxation, education, and wildlife observation.
Bregninge Kirke
33.4 km
Medieval island church on a gentle Ærø hillside, where whitewashed stone, quiet fields and seafaring stories meet in a calm, contemplative setting.
Forladt skorsten
34.2 km
A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mølleparken
0.3 km
Grassy amphitheatre and open-air stage, where Sønderborg’s quiet green slopes transform into a vibrant summer concert arena under the evening sky.
Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig
0.6 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Sønderborg at Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig, where history and interactive exhibits come to life.
Rønhaveplads
0.6 km
A peaceful, local-favorite park offering tranquil ponds, leafy lawns, and family-friendly relaxation just outside Sønderborg’s city center. Free, welcoming, and authentic.
Hønekilden
0.7 km
A tiny harbor-side spring where pure water, royal engineering and whispering legends blur into a tranquil urban nook of art and history.
Selfiebænken - Big yellow
0.8 km
Sønderborg's cheerful yellow bench—a playful symbol of local creativity and the perfect photo moment.
Ringridermuseet i Sønderborg
0.8 km
Danmarks eneste ringridermuseum i et bindingsværkshus fra 1643, hvor lanser, medaljer og lokale fortællinger bringer Sønderborgs festlige tradition til live.
Sønderborghus
0.8 km
Cosy cultural house in central Sønderborg, blending live music, creative workshops and a welcoming café into one relaxed, community-focused venue.
Vægmalerierne på Nørre Havnegade
0.8 km
Colorful gable murals on Sønderborg’s harborfront, where evolving large-scale artworks turn an everyday building into a vivid portrait of local life and heritage.
Kongevejsparken
0.8 km
A small historic neighborhood park in central Sønderborg, where former hospital gardens, mature trees and a playground create a relaxed everyday green escape.
Spanske trappe
1.0 km
A once-grey stairway turned into a colourful nature mural, the Spanske Trappe is Sønderborg’s playful urban shortcut and small-scale landmark between two city streets.
Rådhustorvet
1.0 km
Historic town square with a 16th‑century former town hall, Rådhustorvet is a compact, atmospheric hub in Sønderborg’s old quarter.
Visselulles Have
1.1 km
Small in size but rich in stories, Visselulles Have is a tranquil memorial garden that honours Sønderborg’s legendary female dockworker in her old neighbourhood.
Genforeningssten i Sønderborg
1.2 km
A monumental tribute to Denmark's 1920 reunification, nestled near historic Sønderborg Castle.
Sønderborg Castle
1.3 km
Centuries of royal drama, borderland wars and Southern Jutland stories unfold inside this waterfront fortress‑turned‑museum on the Alssund.
Historiske Vandringer – På sporet af 1. verdenskrig
1.5 km
A quiet harbour walk in Sønderborg that traces the invisible footprints of World War I through barracks, memorials and everyday streets in a former borderland town.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Alsik
0.6 km
Contemporary waterfront restaurant in the Alsik Hotel, blending South Jutland ingredients with classic European flavours in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Syttende
0.6 km
Michelin-starred sky dining on the 17th floor of Alsik, where New Nordic cuisine meets sweeping waterfront views over Sønderborg and Alssund.
Det Libanesiske Køkken Pizza og Grill
0.7 km
Casual Lebanese grill and classic pizza on Sønderborg’s main street, serving generous plates, stone-baked slices and easy takeaway in a relaxed, everyday setting.
Kislings
0.7 km
A cozy Sønderborg café and specialty coffee bar blending Danish hygge, craft roasting and a hidden courtyard oasis right on bustling pedestrian Perlegade.
Jensens Bøfhus
0.8 km
Family-friendly Danish steakhouse serving grilled beef and comfort food in central Sønderborg.
Milas & Malthe’s FOODCOURT Sønderborg
0.8 km
Casual burgers, salads and cocktails in a relaxed food court–style hangout on Sønderborg’s main shopping street, ideal for easy lunches, laid-back dinners and drinks.
Torve-Hallen
0.8 km
Eclectic waterfront restaurant in Sønderborg pairing Italian-inspired comfort food, creative interiors and harbour views from morning coffee to late-night dinners.
KING FOOD SØNDERBORG
0.8 km
Quality döner and burgers in Sønderborg's vibrant city center, open late for hungry diners.
Sønderborg Pizza og Grill
0.8 km
Central Sønderborg pizzeria and grill serving classic Danish‑style pizzas, burgers and takeaway favorites in a simple, no‑frills setting on Jernbanegade.
Rainbow Sushi v/Thi Trinh
0.8 km
Compact, central Sønderborg sushi restaurant and takeaway serving fresh, generous rolls and classic nigiri in a relaxed, low-key setting on Jernbanegade.
Peking Restaurant
0.8 km
Spacious Chinese buffet, sushi and Mongolian barbecue in central Sønderborg, ideal for relaxed group meals, family dinners and easy, inexpensive feasts.
Kina Grill
0.9 km
Generous portions of Chinese and grill fare in casual, unpretentious Sønderborg.
Dining By Kretzmann ApS
0.9 km
Inventive Nordic-inspired fine dining in an intimate, relaxed space on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, where seasonal menus turn an evening out into a culinary journey.
La Fromagerie
0.9 km
Intimate cheese shop, deli and wine bar on Sønderborg’s main street, pairing artisan cheeses with easygoing brasserie plates and well-chosen wines.
Curry Leaves
0.9 km
Authentic Indian flavors and attentive service in the heart of Sønderborg
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Huset Torre
0.7 km
Curated fashion, home décor, and wine experiences in Sønderborg's vibrant pedestrian quarter.
Outdoor In City Centre
0.7 km
Expert outdoor and fishing gear in Sønderborg's pedestrian heart.
Butik Schlott
0.7 km
Independent men’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main street, offering curated international brands, classic tailoring and personal service in a relaxed setting.
in mood
0.8 km
Stylish women's fashion in the heart of Sønderborg's city center.
Juhl Bolighus A / S
0.8 km
A vast Danish design furniture house in Sønderborg’s historic center, blending showroom and museum to showcase timeless craftsmanship and iconic interiors.
Janne K Sønderborg
0.8 km
Colorful Danish womenswear with Italian-made fabrics in the heart of Sønderborg’s main shopping street on the island of Als.
Noa Noa
0.8 km
A small Danish fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main street, showcasing Noa Noa’s feminine, bohemian-inspired style in a calm, easy-to-browse setting.
Masai
0.8 km
Danish fashion boutique celebrating bold colors, unique prints, and Scandinavian design excellence.
Kop & Kande
0.8 km
Welcoming Danish homeware and gift shop on Sønderborg’s main street, stocked with practical kitchen essentials, stylish tableware and thoughtful presents.
Gundtoft Sønderborg
0.9 km
Classic women's fashion since 1957, nestled on Sønderborg's charming pedestrian street.
Tøjeksperten
0.9 km
Denmark's largest menswear chain brings premium brands and accessible style to central Sønderborg.
Scandinavian Scents
0.9 km
An intimate Sønderborg boutique where Nordic-inspired candles and home fragrances bring the region’s calm forests, sea air and hygge simplicity into everyday life.
Viller
0.9 km
Independent women’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, blending Scandinavian style, curated brands and personal, one-to-one service.
Jim P.
0.9 km
Curated fashion for discerning shoppers seeking distinctive style beyond the mainstream.
Mr Klausen Herre-og Drengetøj
0.9 km
Classic Danish mens- and boyswear on Sønderborg’s Perlegade, blending everyday essentials, occasion outfits and local Ringridning traditions in one friendly shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Freia Bar & Lounge
0.6 km
Harbourfront hotel bar with Nordic myth touches, crafted drinks and hygge-rich lounge seating overlooking Sønderborg’s Alssund and skyline.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
0.6 km
Intimate, association-run jazz club in central Sønderborg, serving up New Orleans–inspired live music, close-up performances and a friendly, community atmosphere.
Værtshus Chr. Iv
0.6 km
Classic brown beer hall on Sønderborg’s main street, serving simple drinks, local atmosphere and everyday Danish hygge from late morning into the evening.
Restaurant Viking - Pool and billiards Sønderborg
0.7 km
Authentic Danish neighborhood pub where locals gather for affordable drinks, billiards, and genuine community atmosphere.
Caféen
0.9 km
Lively, low‑priced bar inside Sønderborg’s Alsion complex, where students and locals meet for music, dancing and late‑night drinks by the harbour.
Den Lille Vinbar
0.9 km
Cosy fromagerie-style wine bar on Perlegade, pairing carefully selected bottles with generous cheese tapas in an intimate, continental-feeling corner of Sønderborg.
Bar' Vinbar
1.0 km
Central Sønderborg’s relaxed corner wine bar, pouring around 50 wines by the glass plus cocktails, coffee and light bites in a warm, informal atmosphere.
Old Danish Pub
1.0 km
Classic hygge-filled pub near Sønderborg’s main square, with affordable drinks, games, sports on screen and lively karaoke evenings on two cosy floors.
the tea house
1.0 km
South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
Heidi's Bier Bar Sønderborg
1.0 km
Loud alpine-themed beer hall and late-night party bar bringing après-ski energy, big steins and sing-along hits to Sønderborg’s central Rådhustorvet.
SKAAL Sønderborg
1.0 km
Modern craft beer bar and kitchen on Sønderborg’s main square, pouring rotating Danish brews and serving hearty comfort food in a stylish, urban setting.
Visselulles Vinbar
1.1 km
Intimate waterfront wine bar showcasing world-class vintages and French-inspired ambiance in historic Sønderborg.
Rabalder Bar - Sønderborg
1.1 km
Tiny in size but big on volume, Rabalder Bar Sønderborg packs sing‑along hits, simple drinks and late‑night energy into one compact old‑town party den.
Penny Lane Sønderborg
1.1 km
Lively late‑night bar in central Sønderborg serving cocktails, beer and loud tunes from evening warm‑up to near‑club energy on weekend nights.
Nebula.dk ApS
1.1 km
Atmospheric shisha lounge and cocktail bar in Sønderborg’s historic center, offering intimate lighting, cozy seating and slow-paced evenings for adults.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Industrial
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
